Testicular Cancer - Symptoms and Treatment

Testicular cancer occurs most commonly in males between the ages of 15 and 34. This is one of the most common cancers seen in young men. The cause of testicular cancer is unknown, but it seems to develop more often in young men with a history for late descending, or an undescended testicle. The cancer arises in the sperm producing cells.

Symptoms of Testicular Cancer

Common presentation for testicular cancer includes a swelling or hard lump in the testicle. The lump usually does not cause any discomfort. Evaluation includes Urologic consultation with history and physical examination. Special blood tests (e.g. alpha-fetoprotein, beta-subunit HCG) and ultrasound of the testicle can increase the accuracy of diagnosis before surgical exploration. Biopsy (removal) of the testicle may be necessary in some cases to make a definitive diagnosis.

Treatment of Testicular Cancer

Treatment of testicular cancer depends on the extent the has spread beyond the testicle. All cases will involve surgical removal of the cancerous testicle. If the cancer is well localized to the testicle, the cure rate is essentially 100%.

Treatment of more advanced disease will include regimens of radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Even in cases of more extensive disease, there has been a cure rate of up to 85%, using different combinations of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. See the Urologist for evaluation of any suspicious testicular lump or mass.

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